Heavy rain hits Wiltshire (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Heavy rain hits Wiltshire

1:42pm Wednesday 9th July 2008 in Swindon By Gazette Reporter

The met office has issued a severe weather warning for the South West today.

Rain will become heavy and prolonged this morning and will persist for much of the day. Falls of 25 to 35 mm are expected on already saturated ground, with perhaps in excess of 40 mm.

However the rain is expected to ease later this evening.

Rivers in the Swindon and surrounding area are on flood watch according to the environment agency.

The River Ray and River Cole catchments are therefore being warned to expect flooding of low lying land and roads.

The met office advises people to take extra care if there are flood warnings in the area and be aware of difficult driving conditions and other road problems.

Have you been affected by flooding or heavy rain? Text the Gazette at 80360.

Barry Russell, area flood risk manager for the Environment Agency, said: "We are aware that these flood watches may cause concern - particularly as it is almost a year on since this area saw significant flooding. "But I want to reassure the public that this is a completely different situation. We are expecting much less rain than this time a year ago, and the ground is much more able to absorb this falling rain. "However, as always, we will continue to monitor river levels and keep the public informed."

Have you been affected by flooding or heavy rain? Click comment below or email us.